APPLICATIONS are now being sought for next year’s intake in the Traralgon-based Indigenous Apprentice Program.
The program, auspiced through the Federal Government’s Department of Human Services, aims to offer apprenticeships which “can be the start of a diverse, secure and satisfying career with the Australian Public Service”, according to Indigenous Employment manager Carlyn Waters.
Ms Waters said DHS was a “very large government organisation delivering Centrelink, Child Support and Medicare payments and services.”
“It’s a department that at one time or another has contact with almost every Australian.
“It has a strong commitment to employing indigenous Australians with opportunities throughout the country, from Tasmania, north to the Torres Straits and west to Bunbury.”
Ms Waters said indigenous staff were engaged throughout the department in a variety of roles from front counter customer service officers to managers overseeing vital service delivery programs.
“In the Latrobe Valley with our large indigenous customer base, the recruitment of indigenous staff is a priority,” Ms Waters said.
“It helps to ensure we’re providing services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate.”
Ms Waters said the indigenous apprenticeship scheme and the school-based apprenticeship program offered people with limited work experience the chance to “build a future for themselves”.
“Indigenous apprentices complete Certificate III qualifications as well as receiving on the job training over a 12-month period.
“Existing indigenous staff members act as mentors for each apprentice offering them the added benefit of their personal experience as well as moral support.
“I encourage anyone looking for an interesting job in a supportive environment to apply. You won’t regret it,” she said.
The application period closes this Sunday.
